Chewing gum, occupational stress, work performance and wellbeing. An intervention study
Andrew P Smith1, Katherine Chaplin, Emma Wadsworth
1Centre for Occupational and Health Psychology, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, 63 Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AS, UK. SmithAP@cardiff.ac.uk
Appetite
|March 7, 2012
Summary
Chewing gum significantly reduced occupational stress, fatigue, anxiety, and depression in a study. Participants also reported improved mood and perceived performance at work and in their personal lives.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Occupational stress is a significant issue impacting employee well-being and performance.
- Interventions to mitigate workplace stress are crucial for maintaining a healthy workforce.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of chewing gum consumption on occupational stress.
- To assess the effects of chewing gum on stress, fatigue, mood, and perceived performance.
Main Methods:
- An intervention study involving 101 volunteers from Cardiff University.
- Participants' stress, fatigue, anxiety, depression, mood, and performance perceptions were measured.
Main Results:
- Chewing gum consumption was associated with significant reductions in stress, fatigue, anxiety, and depression.
- Participants reported a more positive mood and enhanced perceptions of performance.
- These benefits were observed both in occupational and non-occupational contexts.
Conclusions:
- Chewing gum may serve as a simple, accessible intervention for managing occupational stress and improving employee well-being.
- Further research could explore the physiological mechanisms underlying these effects.
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